Messi Rules Out Argentina as World Cup Favorites

G. E (Elbotola)

08 May 2026at18:46

Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentine national team and Inter Miami player, has ruled out his country as the top favorite to win the upcoming World Cup, despite Argentina being the reigning champions.

In an interview with journalist Pollo Álvarez, Messi explained that other national teams currently surpass Argentina in the list of favorites. Messi stated, "We have other candidates who are arriving in better shape as a national team."

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner identified France, Spain, and Brazil as the strongest contenders for the next global title. He justified this by highlighting France's large squad of high-level players.

Messi believes that Brazil and Spain always remain strong candidates due to the quality of their players. He commented, "Spain and Brazil, even though the latter hasn't been in its best form for a while, are always contenders and have the players to fight in all official competitions."

Messi also mentioned other major European teams, such as Germany, England, and Portugal, describing them as strong competitive sides capable of going far in the tournament.

These statements come at a time when the sports world anticipates what could be the Argentine player's final appearance in a World Cup. Messi specifically noted France's excellent current form, stating, "France is in a very good position again, and they have many top-level players."

Q&A

What did Lionel Messi say about Argentina's World Cup chances?

Lionel Messi stated that Argentina is not among the top favorites for the upcoming World Cup, despite being the reigning champions. He believes other national teams are currently in better shape and possess stronger squads for the global title.

Why does Lionel Messi consider other teams stronger contenders?

Lionel Messi considers other teams stronger contenders because he believes they are "arriving in better shape as a national team" and possess a larger squad of high-level players. He specifically highlighted one European nation's excellent current form.

Who does Lionel Messi identify as the strongest contenders for the next World Cup?

Lionel Messi identified France, Spain, and Brazil as the strongest contenders for the next global title. He also mentioned other major European teams like Germany, England, and Portugal as competitive sides capable of going far in the tournament.